The plans to upgrade South Kensington tube station have been refined following feedback from the local community. The most contentious part of the plans would see the bullnose, a notable if the frankly rather shabby building at the front of the station redeveloped into a taller modern building in front of the restored arcade.
Following feedback, they’ve changed the facade design, reducing the amount of glazing and increasing the amount of stone cladding.
The north side of the station, currently a pedestrianised area is to see the shops and flats above redeveloped behind the facade. They’ve now proposed to reduce the height of the rooftop mansard – the sloped back top floor, and change the ground floor to improve cycle parking and shop facilities for the local council.
The south side of the station is currently empty, and they plan to build a row of flats along Pelham Street. They reduced the amount of retail space that was planned, widened the pavement, and agreed to mix up the colours a bit to match local buildings.
A spokesperson for the joint venture between Native Land and Transport for London, said: “Overall our proposals, which follow extensive consultation with the local community and stakeholders, will deliver 50 new homes, of which 35% will be affordable, the restoration of the historic station arcade to its former glory, new shops, high-quality offices, and will complete the delivery of step-free access to the Circle & District lines. Subject to planning permission, the development remains on track to start construction in 2023.”
More details here.
Although not part of a planned below-ground upgrade, the above-ground development is needed to help fund the upgrades in the tube station below – such as the revamped ticket hall and adding step-free access to the Piccadilly and Circle/District line platforms.
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Updated: Removed reference to lowering the height and restaurant as those were previous to these latest changes.
Quite like the idea of what South Kensington Underground station will look like. Including having step-free access.